Isotopes are atoms of the same element with identical proton numbers but different neutron counts. Stable isotopes, with half-lives longer than 10¹⁵ years, undergo negligible radioactive decay. For elements of the third Period and beyond, their isotopes usually show minor differences in physical properties and are considered chemically identical in many previous studies.

The assumption does not always hold.

A research team led by Prof. Sen Xin from the Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences have recently revealed that two stable sulfur isotopes (³⁴S and ³²S) exhibit significant differences in both kinetics and thermodynamics of participating the electrode reactions in a rechargeable Li-S battery. The (dis)charge process of Li-S batteries usually involves generation and dissolution of high-order lithium polysulfide intermediates (Li₂S_n, 4≤n≤8) at the cathode-electrolyte interface, and diffusion of Li₂S_n through the liquid electrolyte to reach the Li-metal anode. The above process forms the main reason for rapid capacity decline of the S cathode and exothermic parasitic reactions on the surface of Li anode. By employing the time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, the team has proven that the ³⁴S-based polysulfides (Li₂³⁴S_n) migrate slower than the ³²S-based polysulfides, which accounts for improved battery performance and isotope fractionation at both electrodes.

Using sintered lunar regolith for heat storage, Harbin Institute of Technology researchers demonstrate how a closed Brayton cycle combined with thermoelectric generators could provide uninterrupted electricity for future moonbases

Prof. Long Zhang’s group successfully developed a rapid annealing strategy for synthesizing metal–organic framework (MOF) derivatives, which offers significant advantages in terms of time efficiency and energy consumption compared to conventional pyrolysis methods.

Graphene, as a typical two-dimensional material, has demonstrated transformative application potential in fields such as electronic devices, energy storage, and catalysis due to its outstanding carrier mobility, mechanical strength, and excellent thermal conductivity.

MXenes are gaining attention in nanomedicine, with Nb₂CT_x standing out as a particularly promising, non-toxic, and biocompatible candidate. Despite its potential for clinical applications, Nb₂CT_x requires surface stabilization to prevent oxidation and improve stability.